Best Places to Shop in Little Haiti

Little Haiti in Miami is one of the region’s oldest and most historic neighborhoods and is home to Miami’s Haitian community. The town used to be called Lemon City because wild lemon trees grew abundantly across the area. Today, the vibrant, culturally rich community is home to a thriving shopping district, where you’ll find everything from massive food markets to boutiques carrying furniture, fabric and more.

éliou

Friends Cristy Mantilla and Duda Teixeira founded éliou to share unusual, handcrafted jewelry with fashionistas of all ages. Rather than classic diamonds and pearls, these creative pieces are designed to stand out and encourage the wearer to experiment with their individual style. The brand works with family and artisans in Brazil to source materials for their jewelry. In addition to jewelry, the duo offers light, airy, ready-to-wear pieces, with many pieces produced in limited quantities, along with bags, eyewear and other fun accessories.

Caribbean Marketplace

Within the Little Haiti Cultural Complex sits the Caribbean Marketplace, also known as Mache Ayisyen. You can do some of your best shopping in Miami at this massive market, which was designed as a replica of Port-au-Prince’s Iron Market. For many, it's become a weekly tradition to sample authentic Haitian cuisine, browse colorful artwork and shop for one-of-a-kind clothing. Live music plays most of the day, so grab a seat and enjoy lunch with friends. The market is open Fridays from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Libreri Mapou

One of the neighborhood’s many colorful storefronts is home to Libreri Mapou. The bilingual library features books in Creole, French and English, and was founded by Jan Mapou, a Haitian playwright and activist, in 1990. Discover a wide range of subject matter, from folklore and sociological studies to novels and language books, along with a collection of international newspapers from cities including Port-au-Prince and Paris.

Sweat Records

Vinylheads and music lovers will find their slice of paradise at Sweat Records. The beloved independent shop sells Miami’s widest selection of new and reissued vinyl, plus used LPs, turntables, accessories, enamel pins, local merch, zines and more. Consider this your chance to find a new genre worth listening to. Pro tip: Join its customer loyalty program, and you’ll receive a punch for every new or used LP over $20; 12 punches get you a $20 voucher to use in the shop. Sweat Records also hosts events where you can discover live local bands.

Bortan Fabrics

At Bortan Fabrics, part of the fun is not quite knowing what you’ll find. Shelves are stacked high with fabric in seemingly every color, texture and pattern, alongside trims, notions and the occasional statement-making find you probably weren’t looking for but suddenly need. The longtime shop has been a go-to among tailors and designers searching for something a little unusual. Whether you’re planning a custom outfit or letting the fabric inspire the idea, take time to browse and speak with the owner.

Arkimodel

For anyone who can happily spend an afternoon admiring kitchens and closets, Arkimodel offers plenty of inspiration. The company creates custom cabinetry and millwork for kitchens, wardrobes and full interiors, all with a clean, modern look. Its showroom showcases finishes like light oak, dark walnut and bronze glass. Indoor blinds are also available.

Where To Eat Around Little Haiti

While you’re in the neighborhood, consider bopping around to sample vibrant Haitian cuisine, mouthwatering Jamaican favorites, nearby MICHELIN-starred restaurants and more. 

One haunt not to miss is Chef Creole Seasoned Kitchen, known for blending Creole spices and Caribbean flavors into its meals. Popular choices include oxtail, fried conch and more. The food is served in takeout containers, but plenty of seats let you enjoy your feast on site.

La Natural earned MICHELIN Bib Gourmand recognition for its naturally leavened pizzas made with 48-hour cold-fermented dough; each pie is topped with flavorful, seasonal ingredients. Think a white pie garnished with wild mushrooms, piave cheese and parsley.

Sunny’s Steakhouse, in the nearby Little River area, is an indoor-outdoor restaurant that’s become a locals’ favorite for its juicy steaks, chilled martinis and laid-back ambiance. Don’t forget an order of the warm Parker house rolls and the corn and blue crab agnolotti pasta. Tip: Book a table well in advance, as tables fill up fast.